Body Fat Calculator
Calculate your body fat percentage using the U.S. Navy method
Measure at the narrowest point, below the Adam's apple
Measure at the navel level for men, at the narrowest point for women
What is Body Fat Percentage?
Body fat percentage is the amount of fat mass in your body compared to your total body weight. It's a more accurate measure of fitness than weight or BMI alone, as it distinguishes fat from muscle.
The U.S. Navy Method
This calculator uses the U.S. Navy method, which estimates body fat percentage based on neck, waist, and hip measurements. It's considered reasonably accurate and is widely used by military organizations.
Taking Measurements
For accurate results, measure your neck at the narrowest point, waist at the navel (men) or narrowest point (women), and hips at the widest part of the buttocks (women only). Use a flexible tape measure and keep it snug but not tight.
Limitations
While the Navy method is quite reliable, it may not be as accurate as methods like DEXA scans or hydrostatic weighing. It may slightly overestimate body fat in lean individuals and underestimate it in those with obesity.
Healthy Body Fat Ranges
For men: 6-24% (Essential: 2-5%, Athletic: 6-13%, Fitness: 14-17%, Average: 18-24%, Obese: 25%+). For women: 16-31% (Essential: 10-15%, Athletic: 16-20%, Fitness: 21-24%, Average: 25-31%, Obese: 32%+). Ranges vary by age.
Body Fat Calculator
Calculate your body fat percentage using the U.S. Navy method with this free online tool. This reliable method estimates body fat percentage based on several body measurements, giving you insights into your body composition, health status, and fitness level.
How to Use the Body Fat Calculator
Select Units and Gender
Choose between metric (cm/kg) and imperial (in/lbs) units, and select your gender. Women will need to take hip measurements in addition to neck and waist.
Enter Your Measurements
Input your age, height, weight, neck circumference, waist circumference, and hip circumference (women only). Follow the measurement tips for accurate results.
Get Results
Click "Calculate Body Fat" to see your body fat percentage, fat mass, lean mass, body fat category, and how your measurements compare to healthy ranges.
Interpret Results
View your body fat category and recommended ranges based on your age and gender. Use this information to set realistic fitness goals.
User Feedback
Michael T.
This calculator gave me a much better picture of my fitness than just weighing myself. I've been tracking my progress for months and can see how my body composition is changing even when my weight isn't.
Sarah K.
I love how this tool explains the different body fat categories. It helped me set realistic fitness goals instead of aiming for an unsustainably low body fat percentage.
David L.
The detailed explanation of how to take measurements properly was very helpful. Much more convenient than going to a gym for a professional assessment.
Features of Our Body Fat Calculator
U.S. Navy Method
Uses the reliable U.S. Navy circumference method, which provides reasonably accurate body fat estimates without specialized equipment.
Detailed Results
Get your body fat percentage, fat mass, lean mass, and ideal body fat range based on your age and gender.
Both Unit Systems
Supports both metric (centimeters/kilograms) and imperial (feet/inches/pounds) measurements.
Gender-Specific Calculations
Uses different formulas and reference ranges for men and women to provide accurate results.
Age-Based Recommendations
Provides ideal body fat ranges adjusted for your age, acknowledging that healthy body fat levels change as we age.
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate is the U.S. Navy method for calculating body fat?
The U.S. Navy method is considered to have a standard error of 3-4% compared to more precise methods like DEXA scans. It's reasonably accurate for most people and is widely used by military organizations for its practicality and reliability.
How often should I measure my body fat percentage?
For tracking fitness progress, measuring once every 2-4 weeks is usually sufficient. Body fat changes relatively slowly, and more frequent measurements might show normal fluctuations rather than true changes.
Why does the calculator need different measurements for men and women?
Men and women have different natural body fat distributions. Women naturally carry more essential fat. The hip measurement for women helps account for the different fat distribution patterns between genders.
What's considered a healthy body fat percentage?
Healthy ranges vary by gender and age. For men: 6-24% (varying by age), with athletes often between 6-13%. For women: 16-30% (varying by age), with athletes often between 14-20%.
Can this calculator be used for children or adolescents?
This calculator is designed for adults. Body fat estimation for children and adolescents should use methods specifically validated for younger age groups, under professional supervision.